Hampton Court Palace Festival 2026 highlights
As the sun sets behind the red-brick towers of Hampton Court Palace, one of Britain’s most distinctive live music events returns for another unforgettable summer.
Now in its 31st year, Hampton Court Palace Festival once again transforms the historic Tudor courtyard into an intimate concert venue where world-class artists perform before just 3,000 guests each night.
With audiences invited to explore the East Front Gardens after hours, enjoy luxury picnics on the palace grounds and experience live music against the backdrop of Henry VIII’s former residence, the festival remains one of the most unique events on the UK’s cultural calendar.
This year promises another remarkable line-up spanning pop, rock, punk, disco, classical crossover and dance music. We’ll be updating this feature throughout the festival with highlights, photography and memorable moments from each night’s performance.
11 June 2026 – David Gray opens the festival in style
Hampton Court Palace Festival 2026 began in spectacular fashion with a sold-out performance from acclaimed singer-songwriter David Gray.
Taking to the stage in the historic Base Court, Gray delivered a set packed with career-defining songs that have become fixtures of British music over the past three decades. Fans were treated to beloved hits including Babylon, This Year’s Love and Sail Away, with the atmospheric setting adding an extra layer of magic to the evening.
Against the backdrop of the illuminated Tudor palace, Gray’s distinctive vocals and emotionally resonant songwriting created a memorable opening night for the festival. The performance marked the first of two consecutive sold-out appearances, underlining the enduring popularity of one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists.
As festival-goers enjoyed the warm summer evening within the palace grounds, the concert set the tone for what promises to be another exceptional year of live music at Hampton Court Palace.
A Festival Like No Other
Few music events can match the atmosphere of Hampton Court Palace Festival. Produced in partnership with Historic Royal Palaces, the independent charity that cares for Hampton Court Palace, the event offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience legendary artists within one of Britain’s most historic settings.
With attendance limited to just 3,000 people each evening, every performance feels personal, creating an intimacy rarely found at major summer concerts. Whether enjoying a luxury picnic in the gardens before the show or watching world-class performers beneath the palace’s centuries-old architecture, festival-goers are part of an experience that blends history, culture and live music in truly unique fashion.
This feature will continue to be updated throughout Hampton Court Palace Festival 2026 as each night’s performances unfold.
2026 Line-up
| Date | Artist | Prices From |
| Wednesday 10 June | David Gray | £75.00 |
| Thursday 11 June | David Gray | £75.00 |
| Friday 12 June | OMD | £65.00 |
| Saturday 13 June | Pete Tong Ibiza Classics | £85.00 |
| Tuesday 16 June | The Stranglers | £59.00 |
| Wednesday 17 June | Nile Rodgers & Chic | £85.00 |
| Thursday 18 June | Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton | £75.00 |
| Friday 19 June | Sophie Ellis-Bextor | £55.00 |
| Saturday 20 June | 80s Classical ft Special Guests | £65.00 |
